Superstar forward Kylian Mbappé has officially been unveiled as Real Madrid's new number 10, a move that solidifies his status as the face of the club and marks a significant moment for the reigning European champions. The announcement, made today, July 29, 2025, confirms a long-anticipated shirt number change for the Frenchman.
Mbappé, who joined Real Madrid on a free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain last summer, had initially donned the number 9 jersey in his historic debut season. He enjoyed a sensational first year at the Bernabéu, netting an impressive 44 goals across all competitions, the most by any player in their debut season for the club. He also claimed both the Pichichi Trophy and the European Golden Boot.
However, with the departure of club legend Luka Modrić to AC Milan, the coveted number 10 shirt became vacant. Speculation had been rife for weeks regarding who would inherit the iconic number, with names like Arda Güler and Jude Bellingham also mentioned. Ultimately, Real Madrid decided to bestow the legendary jersey upon Mbappé, a decision that comes as no surprise given his immediate impact and immense talent.
The 26-year-old will now wear the same number for both club and country, as he has long sported the number 10 for the French national team. This move places Mbappé in an esteemed lineage of Real Madrid greats who have worn the number 10, including Ferenc Puskás, Luís Figo, Clarence Seedorf, and Mesut Özil.
The switch is also seen as a smart marketing move by Real Madrid, with new Kylian Mbappé number 10 jerseys expected to fly off the shelves. The pressure will now be on the France captain to continue his exceptional form and live up to the legacy associated with his new, iconic number.
